Summer Soirees

Here in high summer, we savor the longer days and being outdoors as much as possible, knowing they are fleeting. A relaxed mood is all around us. Even entertaining is easier and more fun. ■ Everyone knows I love showcasing a great-looking table for my get-togethers. It is satisfying to design and is a welcoming gift for our guests. Perhaps it was my few years at Bride’s magazine that ignited my passion for creating interesting tables. There are countless ways of adding interest to any table, and you do not need to be a pro. Adopt a playful mood and try to break away from your triedand-true style. Entertaining outdoors kicks my tabletop design into high gear. I think about where to place the table, generally ditch the so-called “good china” and opt for layering colors and textures of the plates and textiles. Finish it off with soft lighting and lots of candles. ■ After a few early-summer dinner parties, I was in the market for another tablecloth to avoid a tabletop slump. I went to my local haunts, and the shops were full of great items. I walked away with lots of options and great inspiration, but no tablecloth. In the meantime, I got an email from a former editor and now contributor to CTC&G, Alexa Stevenson. This talented interior designer started a textile company, Lex & King, that offers linens that are classic with a twist. I had a laugh when I remembered asking Alexa to create a tabletop feature for the magazine. While she was a little nervous, I knew she would do a great job. She admitted to liking the process so much that she proposed creating a monthly inspirational table setting for the magazine. Well, as you might have guessed, I headed immediately to the website (lexandking.com) and found a perfect handblocked floral pattern with a beautiful edge detail in green and white. I now have a new inspiration and immediately started thinking of additional colors to add and what type of flowers or plants would work as a centerpiece. I went down that design rabbit hole immediately and enjoyed every minute of it.

DJ Carey Editorial Director djcarey@candg.com